What is type 2 diabetes?

This is the most common form of diabetes affecting 85 – 90% of all people with diabetes. While it usually affects mature adults, younger people and children are developing type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Type 2 diabetes is predominantly a lifestyle disease and has a strong link with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insufficient physical activity and extra weight carried around the waist.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the beta cells in the pancreas still function and produce some insulin but this insulin is not working as effectively as it should (this is often called insulin resistance). The effect is a rise in blood glucose levels. People who develop type 2 diabetes often do not seek medical advice as the symptoms may develop slowly. Symptoms may not be obvious and can often be diagnosed through other medical conditions.

Type 2 diabetes often responds well to a healthy eating plan, appropriate physical activity and a weight loss program. However, it is important to realise that diabetes is a progressive disease and over time tablets and/or insulin may be required to keep blood glucose levels within the normal ranges. It is important to take tablets/insulin when recommended by a Doctor so that the complications of diabetes are reduced.

In type 2 diabetes, many people have no symptoms at all, while other signs can go unnoticed are mistaken as part of “getting older’"  Common symptoms include; increased thirst, frequent urination, feeling tired and lethargic, always feeling hungry, having cuts that heal slowly, itching, skin infections, blurred vision, gradually putting on weight, mood swings, headaches, feeling dizzy and leg cramps.

What does it mean for someone diagnosed with type 2 diabetes?

If you have just been diagnosed or someone you care for has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it is perfectly normal to be experiencing a range of emotions that may be overwhelming.

The good news is diabetes will not prevent you from living a normal life. Trying to balance all the requirements of diabetes treatment can be a challenge. Diabetes is about self management and in order to achieve this it is important to find out the correct information to allow you to make the best choices for your ongoing health. Diabetes management requires a long term commitment to good health through support and ongoing review.

You can achieve this by having a good understanding of diabetes and know how you can make informed choices relating to lifestyle and treatment options.

While you will manage your diabetes day by day, there will be times when you will need help from a larger team. This includes your Doctor, Diabetes Educator, Dietitian, Endocrinologist , Podiatrist, Optometrist / Ophthalmologist, Dentist, Exercise Physiologist and other Allied Health Professionals. It is important to find a good team of people who can support you and your diabetes and develop a good relationship with them.

Educating and updating your knowledge of diabetes allows you to make better decisions about your health.There are many people who can help you to understand and manage your condition. 

What to do now?

Diabetes SA has a range of type 2 education programs and support services available to support you with your journey with diabetes.

We will help you take steps to learn what you need to know so that you can independently manage diabetes whilst keeping a close team of Health Professionals on hand to guide you.

Please have a look at our calendar to find an education program to suit your needs.

Contact us

At Diabetes SA we have a team of Health Care Professionals to assist you with managing your diabetes. Our Health Care Team are available from 9am to 4pm (Monday to Friday) to answer your questions.